Insights from Dr. Sanketh Dhumal Satya’s Presentation
In an illuminating presentation on ‘“The Importance of Choosing the Right Incubator for the IVF Lab”, at the seminar hosted by ESCO Medical and SMART LABTECH Pvt Ltd on May 25th at Lemon Tree Premier, HITEC City, Hyderabad, Dr. Sanketh Dhumal Satya, a seasoned Consultant Embryologist at Hegde Fertility Hyderabad, shared his profound insights on the pivotal role of incubators in IVF laboratories.
He commenced his presentation by emphasizing the significance of incubators in assisted reproductive technology. He described incubators as artificial wombs that emulate the nurturing environment of the fallopian tube and uterus, underscoring their essential role in the developmental journey of embryos in vitro.
Drawing from his extensive experience, Dr. Sanketh defined an incubator not merely as a piece of equipment, but as a critical environment that maintains precise conditions necessary for embryonic development, including regulated temperature, humidity, and gas composition. These conditions ensure a stable and protected environment that shields the developing embryos from external contaminants and fluctuations, which are detrimental to their growth.
Furthermore, Dr. Sanketh elaborated on the symbiotic relationship between incubators and the indoor culture media, stressing that the success of any IVF program heavily relies on the ability of these two components to work in concert. The culture media are specifically designed to function optimally within the controlled environment provided by the incubator, fostering a stable physicochemical backdrop that mirrors the natural conditions of the fallopian tube and uterus.
Optimizing IVF Success with Precision
Highlighting the technical complexities involved, he pointed out the importance of a clinical embryologist’s ability to adeptly manage each variable within the incubator. This skill is crucial for establishing a successful culture strategy for the development of pre-implantation human embryos.
Dr. Sanketh also addressed the variety of advanced incubators available in the market, noting that selecting the right incubator requires careful consideration of numerous factors including temperature recovery, gas atmosphere stability, and humidity control. He stressed that while many clinical studies provide data on the efficacy of various incubators, there is no definitive evidence favouring one over another, making the selection process a critical exercise based on specific clinical needs and workflow optimization within the IVF lab.
Continuing his detailed presentation at the seminar, Dr. Sanketh explored the diverse technical properties and features of incubators critical to IVF laboratories. He delved into the myriad of options available in the market, ranging from basic single-door models to sophisticated multi-door systems, each with unique heating capabilities such as non-heated or heated environments.
He explained the importance of understanding the specific technical features of incubators, such as the type of CO2 or gas mixture controls, including double gas codes and oxygen control systems. He emphasized the significance of choosing the right sensors for incubators, highlighting the various types available—thermal conductivity (TC), infrared (IR), zirconium, or galvanic—each suited for different operational needs.
Smart Incubation for IVF labs
Sterilization methods also play a crucial role in the maintenance of incubators, as Dr. Sanketh pointed out. Effective sterilization ensures the minimization of contamination risks within the culture environment, which is paramount for the successful development of embryos.
Looking ahead to the arrival of Jason Sleight, an expert in embryo culture media, who is scheduled to visit India next month, Dr. Sanketh noted the upcoming discussions on micro-environments within incubators. He praised Sleight’s comprehensive approach to evaluating incubator variables, which aids in making informed decisions when purchasing this essential equipment. Dr. Sanketh further broke down the types of gas systems used in incubators, from CO2-only systems to those offering low oxygen mixtures and pre-mixed options. He detailed the types of CO2 and O2 sensors, underscoring the industry-standard infrared and TC sensors for CO2 and zirconium or galvanic sensors for oxygen monitoring.
Temperature control within incubators can be managed via air-jacketed, water-jacketed, or direct heat methods, providing various options to maintain optimal conditions. Dr. Sanketh also covered the design differences in incubators, from benchtop models with single or multi-chambers to large conventional types and compact designs.
Humidity control was another focal point, with Dr. Sanketh describing systems that either incorporate humidity control or operate as “dry” incubators, which do not manage humidity internally. He also addressed the crucial aspect of contamination control through methods such as heat, UV light, hydrogen peroxide treatments, and external HEPA filters.
Concluding this segment of his presentation, Dr. Sanketh highlighted the importance of considering the cost, patient capacity, service requirements, and integration of advanced technologies such as AI for real-time pH monitoring when selecting an incubator. This comprehensive overview provided the audience with a deep understanding of the technical considerations necessary for optimizing the functionality and efficiency of incubators in IVF laboratories.
Advancing Embryo Care
Dr Sanketh continued his in-depth exploration of incubator technologies, focusing on categorizing and understanding the broad range of features available for IVF laboratories. He outlined the key classifications of incubators, dividing them into box-type and bench-top models, each tailored to meet specific operational needs depending on chamber volume, sensor type, and gas source configurations.
In his presentation, Dr. Sanketh emphasized the importance of the number of chambers or dishes an incubator can handle, highlighting this as a pivotal factor in the categorization of incubators. He further detailed the types of sensors used in incubators, notably thermal conductivity (TC) and infrared (IR) sensors for CO2 detection. TC sensors, he noted, are highly sensitive and ideal for environments where precise gas concentration measurements are crucial. In contrast, IR sensors operate on a principle that allows them to detect gas concentrations by measuring the light absorbed at specific wavelengths, offering effective and efficient CO2 monitoring.
Turning his attention to temperature control within incubators, Dr. Sanketh referenced several studies underscoring the significance of maintaining precise temperature settings for optimal embryo development. He mentioned research by Higdon et al., which suggested that slightly higher incubation temperatures could potentially improve pregnancy rates. However, other studies indicated minimal impact from small temperature variations, pointing out the challenges in achieving exact temperature control and its uncertain effects on clinical outcomes.
Dr. Sanketh also discussed the crucial role of humidity in incubators, explaining how it prevents media evaporation which can affect medium osmolarity and subsequently, embryo development. He described the methods of achieving and maintaining humidity within incubators, stressing the importance of regular monitoring to prevent contamination risks associated with humidity control systems.
He concluded this segment of his presentation by highlighting the involvement of Indian researchers in global studies, particularly noting Dr. Sanjay Shukla’s contribution to recent consensus guidelines on incubator temperature settings, which advocate for maintaining 37 degrees Celsius for extended embryo culture to optimize developmental outcomes.
IVF Success with Controlled Humidity
Dr. Sanketh elaborated on the essential maintenance practices and operational strategies for managing humidity in IVF incubators, underscoring the complexities and technical nuances involved in ensuring optimal environmental conditions for embryo development.
Highlighting the importance of regular checks on the water sources within incubators, Dr. Sanketh stressed that these could become potential contamination points if not properly maintained. He discussed innovative engineering solutions such as using water pumps to bubble gases through a water bottle, a method designed to rapidly achieve desired humidity levels within the incubator.
He further explained the significance of the droplet size in the culture media, which is typically overlaid with oil to protect against evaporation. Dr. Sanketh noted that the duration of embryo culture has a direct correlation with the need for precise humidity control to prevent detrimental osmotic changes in the culture medium.
Dr. Sanketh cited studies to support the efficacy of maintaining adequate humidity in incubators. He referenced research by Posseum (2017), which demonstrated improved embryo development and pregnancy rates with the introduction of humidity in traditionally dry incubators. This finding was corroborated by Albert et al. (2018), who observed enhanced embryonic development with added humidification.
The discussion then shifted towards the practical implications of these findings for IVF clinics. Dr. Sanketh advised that while humidification is critical, it should only be implemented following the specific recommendations provided by incubator manufacturers to avoid potential risks associated with improper humidity levels.
Leading Incubator Models Compared
He also highlighted the importance of after-sales service and the availability of regular maintenance and calibration, noting that these are critical for ensuring the long-term functionality and reliability of the incubators.
Dr. Sanketh delved deeply into the practical aspects of selecting the right incubator for an IVF laboratory during his insightful presentation. Emphasizing the importance of sensor lifespan, spare parts availability, and the critical need for robust monitoring and alarm systems, Dr. Sanketh provided a detailed comparison of various box-type incubators available in the market.
He presented a chart comparing features such as cost, volume capacity, sensor types, humidity regulation, and sterilization cycles across several models. For instance, he discussed the ASTEC models from Japan, which offer capacities ranging from 30 to 160 liters and utilize traditional TC sensors. These incubators feature gate-jacketed temperature control systems and innovative notification systems including water pumps and passive control mechanisms, complemented by automatic calibration of sensors.
Dr. Sanketh also highlighted ESCO cell culture incubators from Singapore, known for their IR-based sensors and air jacketed temperature control systems that also employ direct heat. These units are equipped with a water pan for humidity control and feature data and event logging capabilities, enhancing traceability and monitoring.
Further, he reviewed the Heracell 150i and 160i models from Germany, noting the transition from TC to more reliable IR sensors in newer models. These incubators combine heat jacket and direct heat methods for temperature regulation, with added functionalities like an auto-start-stop feature that minimizes air exchange when the door is opened.
In addition to these, Dr. Sanketh also touched upon the Thermoforma series and Memmert incubators, each offering unique features like humidity display and mobile alerts that cater to modern laboratory needs.
Dr. Sanketh compared bench-top and box-type incubators, and delving into the specifics of time-lapse incubators. He meticulously analyzed the technical aspects of each incubator type, emphasizing the importance of understanding their various features to make informed decisions tailored to the needs of individual labs.
Bench-top Incubators:
Dr. Sanketh highlighted the various models of bench-top incubators, such as the ASTEC E series from Japan, known for its capacity to hold 6 to 10 chambers and equipped with a dry humidification system. He noted the flexibility of these models in gas mixture control, allowing for precise environmental conditions critical for embryo culture. Models like ESCO MIRI and K-System from Denmark were discussed for their compact size and advanced features such as optional pH sensors and integrated gas mixtures, which simplify laboratory workflows.
Box-type Incubators:
In his evaluation of box-type incubators, Dr. Sanketh presented a chart to compare models across different manufacturers, focusing on features such as cost, volume, sensor accuracy, and sterilization cycles. He detailed the sterilization processes of various models, such as ASTEC with a 10-hour cycle and Memmert’s 6-hour cycle, highlighting how shorter cycles reduce downtime in clinical operations, thereby enhancing laboratory efficiency.
Time-lapse Incubators:
Dr. Sanketh introduced the audience to the next generation of incubators: time-lapse systems, which are distinguished by their capability to monitor embryo development continuously. He explained the subdivision of these incubators into two categories: image capture and data storage. Image capture models can either move dishes or cameras to capture images, while data storage models utilize network servers or cloud-based systems to store and analyze data.
Dr. Sanketh concluded his in-depth exploration of incubators for IVF labs at the ESCO Medical seminar by highlighting key considerations for time-lapse incubators and providing critical maintenance guidelines. His comprehensive overview combined detailed technical assessments with practical advice, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right incubator based on specific laboratory needs and the ongoing maintenance that these critical devices require.
Through his detailed analysis and expert insights, Dr. Sanketh provided the seminar attendees with a robust framework for understanding the complexities of incubator selection, maintenance, and management, thereby equipping them with the knowledge to enhance their clinical practices and improve patient outcomes in reproductive medicine.
Dr. Sanketh’s discourse provided the audience with a comprehensive understanding of the essential attributes of incubators that support optimal embryo development and contribute significantly to the advancements in reproductive medicine.
This presentation not only highlighted the critical technical considerations in choosing an incubator but also emphasized the broader impact of such decisions on the success rates of IVF treatments. Dr. Sanketh’s discourse provided the audience with a comprehensive understanding of the essential attributes of incubators that support optimal embryo development and contribute significantly to the advancements in reproductive medicine.
– Indra Venkata Narasu
Dr. Sanketh Dhumal Satya_profile
Dr. Sanketh Dhumal Satya is an accomplished Sr. Consultant Embryologist and Geneticist with a remarkable portfolio. Holding an M.Sc in Genetics, M.Sc in Clinical Embryology, and ESHRE Certification, along with his further studies in the field, Dr. Sanketh has established himself as an eminent figure in the domain of assisted reproductive technology.
He is the Senior Consultant Embryologist at Hegde Fertility, Hyderabad. Actively contributing to the advancement of the field, he serves as an Executive Committee Member of the Academy of Clinical Embryologists, India, and engages in editorial roles for prestigious scientific journals. His commitment to excellence and his significant contributions to the field make him an influential and respected figure in the realm of embryology and reproductive medicine, setting a high standard for professional practice and academic scholarship.